Why Guillermo Ochoa isn’t starting goalie for Mexico at World Cup

Guillermo Ochoa is a Mexican legend in goal.

The goalie known as ‘Memo’ is on the roster for his sixth World Cup. Only some of the most special players in the history of world football have achieved that feat.

This time around is different, though. Ochoa isn’t expected to play much.

That includes in the opening match of the entire 2026 FIFA World Cup, which Mexico is hosting against South Africa.

Ochoa will be there, but he’s slated for more of a mentorship role in this tournament.

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Why isn’t Guillermo Ochoa starting goalie for Mexico?

Ochoa has been passed over in the pecking order in recent years.

It wasn’t even a given that he’d be called up for this World Cup, but since teams take three goalkeepers, there really wasn’t a reason for Mexico to leave him home entirely.

Raul Rangel is expected to start in goal. He wasn’t actually Mexico’s first choice either, though. Luis Malagon tore his Achilles, which is keeping him out of action.

Where does Guillermo Ochoa play club football?

Guillermo Ochoa spent this past season playing in Cyprus. He’s on the roster of AEL Limassol.

Ochoa played the 2024-25 season in Portugal before moving on to Cyprus for the 2025-26 campaign.

How old is Guillermo Ochoa?

Ochoa begins this World Cup at 40 years of age.

He will turn 41 on July 13, six days before the World Cup Final.

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Why Guillermo Ochoa isn’t starting goalie for Mexico at World Cup

Why isn’t Guillermo Ochoa starting goalie for Mexico?

Where does Guillermo Ochoa play club football?

How old is Guillermo Ochoa?

More FIFA World Cup news:

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